Austria in December feels like walking through a snow globe. Every city glows with lights, music, and the scent of roasted chestnuts. Whether you’re wandering Vienna’s palace squares or sipping glühwein by an alpine lake, Austria’s Christmas markets are some of Europe’s most beautiful.

Here’s where to find the best ones this holiday season.

Vienna: Nov 15–Dec 26

Vienna transforms into a Christmas postcard each winter. The main market at Rathausplatz sits beneath city hall, surrounded by glittering trees and rows of wooden stalls. Smaller markets like Spittelberg, Belvedere Palace, and Maria-Theresien-Platz offer everything from handcrafted ornaments to gourmet sweets.
It’s one of Europe’s most elegant holiday settings, and a must if you love festive lights and classical music echoing through cobblestone streets.

Salzburg: Nov 21–Jan 1

Salzburg’s Christkindlmarkt is one of Austria’s oldest, held in the cathedral square with the fortress watching over it. Choirs perform every evening, locals gather for mulled wine, and the air smells like roasted almonds and gingerbread.
The whole city feels wrapped in tradition, from the Advent music to the candlelit streets around Getreidegasse.

Innsbruck: Nov 15–Jan 6

Framed by snow-capped peaks, Innsbruck’s Christmas markets are pure magic. The Old Town market sits under the Golden Roof, while the Marktplatz Family Market has a carousel, lights, and live brass bands.
It’s festive without feeling crowded, and the mountain backdrop makes it one of Austria’s most photogenic spots.

Graz: Nov 15–Dec 24

Graz celebrates Advent across multiple squares and courtyards, each with its own theme. The city’s famous ice nativity, carved from crystal-clear ice and displayed under twinkling lights — is a highlight.
You’ll also find local artisans selling handmade gifts and plenty of regional food stalls serving hot punch and Styrian sweets.

Linz: Nov 23–Dec 24

Set on the Danube River, Linz offers smaller, more local markets that feel authentic and relaxed. Hauptplatz and Volksgarten host the main ones, filled with crafts, ornaments, and traditional Austrian treats.
It’s perfect if you prefer fewer crowds and a genuine local feel.

Hallstatt: Dec 6–Dec 8

Hallstatt’s Christmas market lasts just one weekend, but it’s unforgettable. The tiny lakeside village turns into a holiday postcard, with lights reflecting on the water and mountains rising in the background.
Expect handmade gifts, local food, and a warm, small-town atmosphere that makes the brief season worth the trip.

Kitzbühel: Nov 27–Dec 26

In this Tyrolean ski town, snow is almost guaranteed. Kitzbühel’s market lines the medieval streets with wooden chalets, brass music, and the smell of cinnamon in the air.
It’s cozy, festive, and combines perfectly with a few days on the slopes.

St. Wolfgang (Salzkammergut Lakes): Nov 21–Dec 22

The lakeside villages of St. Wolfgang, St. Gilgen, and Strobl each host their own Advent markets, connected by ferry. Lanterns reflect on the water, candles line the docks, and the setting is one of the most romantic in Europe.
If you want something peaceful and storybook-like, this is the one to plan for.

Travel Tips for Austrian Christmas Markets

• Bring cash. Many smaller stalls don’t take cards
• Dress warm. Austria can be wet and cold in December
• Visit early or after dark. Crowds build quickly on weekends
• Sample local food. Each region has its own holiday specialties
• Book hotels in advance.
• Use the train. The Austrian rail network connects most major cities easily
• Check closing dates. Some markets end before Christmas Eve while others stay open into January

Know Before You Go

Market season: Mid-November through Christmas Eve, with Salzburg and Innsbruck extending into January.
Currency: Euro (€) — cash is still preferred at smaller stalls.
Weather: Expect snow in alpine towns; Vienna and Graz are often cold and clear.
Tip: Book hotels early, especially for weekends. Many markets close by Christmas Eve.

Planning More Christmas Travel?

Looking for more festive destinations?
Christmas Markets in Germany → – Cathedral squares and fairy lights across the country
Christmas Markets in France → – From Alsace villages to Paris lights